What’s the Difference Between a Hard 17 and a Soft 17 in Blackjack?

Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games, but it can be confusing for beginners to understand all of the terminology that comes with it. One of the most important concepts to understand is the difference between a hard 17 and a soft 17.

In blackjack, every card has a point value. Number cards are worth their face value, face cards (kings, queens, and jacks) are worth 10 points each, and aces can be worth either 1 or 11 points depending on what is more advantageous to the player.

A hard hand is any hand that doesn’t have an ace or has an ace that can only be counted as 1 point. For example, if you have a hand with a 9 and an 8 (totaling 17), this would be considered a hard 17 because there is no ace in the hand.

On the other hand, a soft hand is any hand that contains an ace that can be counted as either 1 or 11 points without busting (going over 21). For example, if you have a hand with an ace and a six (totaling either seven or seventeen), this would be considered a soft 17 because the ace can be counted as either one or eleven points.

So why does this matter Well, in blackjack, there are certain rules that apply to different hands.

For example, if you have a total of nine or less in your hand, you always hit (take another card). If you have a total of ten or eleven, you might double down (double your bet and take one more card). And if you have a total of twelve through sixteen, you might stand (not take any more cards) depending on what the dealer’s upcard is.

However, when it comes to hands with totals of 17, the rules can vary depending on whether it’s a hard or soft 17. In most casinos, if the dealer has a soft 17 (for example, an ace and a six), they are required to hit (take another card). This gives the dealer a better chance of improving their hand and beating the player.

On the other hand, if the dealer has a hard 17 (for example, a ten and a seven), they are required to stand (not take any more cards). This makes it more difficult for the dealer to improve their hand and gives the player a better chance of winning.

It’s important to note that these rules can vary from casino to casino, so always check with your specific casino before playing. Additionally, different strategies may apply depending on whether you have a hard or soft 17 in your own hand.

In conclusion, understanding the difference between a hard 17 and a soft 17 in blackjack is crucial for any player looking to improve their game. Knowing when to hit or stand based on these types of hands can make all the difference in whether you win or lose. So study up on your blackjack terminology and good luck at the tables!